The Organisation of the Swiss Abroad

The Organisation of the Swiss Abroad (OSA) represents Swiss expatriates' interests in Switzerland. It informs Swiss living abroad about what is happening in Switzerland and provides them with a wide selection of services.

Structure

The Organisation of the Swiss Abroad (OSA) is supported by over 650 Swiss expatriates' associations and Swiss institutions all over the world. The OSA is recognised by the authorities as the representative organ of the Fifth Switzerland. It was founded in 1916 by the New Helvetic Society (NHS). With its establishment as a foundation under private law in 1989 it acquired its own legal personality.

Its supreme organ is the Council of the Swiss Abroad (CSA), the 'Parliament of the Fifth Switzerland'. 120 delegates from abroad and 20 delegates from home sit on the council and address all matters arising from policy concerning the Swiss abroad.

The President of the OSA and ten other members of the Council for the Swiss Abroad form the Executive Board. This body prepares Council business and represents the Organisation in external affairs.

Its staff of 18 ensures that its numerous services are available to all Swiss expatriates.